Dubai's Health Insurance System Prioritizes Patients and Sustains Momentum

In terms of numbers, according to e-claims data, from January to September this year, the gross claims were 11.83 billion AED

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, October 20, 2020:  Dubai’s health insurance and healthcare providers are prioritizing patients and their wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic, said a top health official.

Saleh Al Hashimi, CEO of Dubai Health Insurance Corporation said, “The whole healthcare system has come together and joined hands to tackle the situation at hand keeping patient care, wellbeing and safety as their priority. The number of outpatient visits dropped and elective surgeries were on hold for a certain period at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, insurance companies carried forward pre-approvals on elective surgeries. These surgeries are now taking place since the ruling to stop elective surgeries has been lifted, thus providing patients with the convenience they require. Moreover, to ensure patients have access to healthcare, in addition to the 24/7 emergency services, both private sector and government hospitals are carrying out a number of telehealth initiatives and consultations. 

“The DHA is providing home delivery of medication for its patients. E-prescriptions were initiated for patients with chronic diseases and patients seeking treatment for mental health.”

Al Hashimi added, “All these measures help patients and ensure capacity in hospitals and health centres are effectively utilized for those in need.

“In terms of numbers, according to e-claims data, from January to September this year, the gross claims were 11.83 billion AED.”
 
Al Hashimi said there are 7752 healthcare providers – this includes group and single facilities, there are 75 plus insurance companies and TPA’s and over 12,280 insurance products. In terms of claims, electronic claims from January to September  this year were 24.10 million, electronic prescriptions were 8.47 million, submitted claims activity was 80.25 million and 22,891 was physician claiming.